Rockville Women's Centerhttps://rockvillewomenscenter.com
Helping Women Find the TruthTue, 10 Sep 2019 22:50:01 +0000en-US
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3232Will abortion ruin my future?https://rockvillewomenscenter.com/2019/09/10/will-abortion-ruin-my-future/
Tue, 10 Sep 2019 22:48:58 +0000http://rockvillewomenscenter.com/?p=1896This is a question that is top of mind for many of the women facing an unexpected pregnancy, who trust us to help them navigate what next steps they need to take when considering an abortion. They often ask us questions about their relationships, their pregnancy options and what this will mean for their future. Maybe this […]

]]>This is a question that is top of mind for many of the women facing an unexpected pregnancy, who trust us to help them navigate what next steps they need to take when considering an abortion. They often ask us questions about their relationships, their pregnancy options and what this will mean for their future.

Maybe this is something you’re wondering as well. After all, most of the time your future is exactly what you’re hoping to protect when you’re considering abortion as an option. Let’s walk you through a few things you do need to consider before deciding whether abortion is your best next step.

If your future is the reason why you’re thinking about having an abortion, it’s really okay to slow down and catch your breath. In the same way that people don’t make big decisions like choosing colleges overnight, you don’t have to rush making a decision about whether to carry your pregnancy to term in the blink of an eye. Good decisions often are not rushed.

If your future is the reason why you’re thinking about having an abortion, it’s important to understand your current sexual health status. Just like evaluations on your current health status are necessary before most medical procedures, (Have you seen some of those health assessment forms that go on for daaaaaaaaaays??) it’s vital that you know if you have active STI’s or STD’s. A simple test can give you the full picture, because skipping this step can put you at-risk for Pelvic Inflammatory Disease or worse.

If your future is the reason why you’re thinking about having an abortion, it’s vital to be well-informed on every aspect of your specific situation. Big decisions deserve quality, factual information that is free from outside bias and customized for your specific situation. You can even get testing that may indicate signs that you could be naturally miscarrying and won’t need to take the next steps in your abortion plan.

If your future is the reason why you’re thinking about having an abortion, your next best step is Rockville Women’s Center, where we can provide you a safe place to take a deep breath, understand your current sexual health status, and be well-informed on every aspect of your specific situation in a FREE one-hour consultation. In fact, all of our services are offered FREE of charge, because we’re a non-profit women’s resource center in Rockville, Maryland that believes in empowering women to make the best decision for their life and their situation. Schedule your appointment online today!

]]>Creating a Self-Care Routinehttps://rockvillewomenscenter.com/2019/09/05/creating-a-self-care-routine/
Thu, 05 Sep 2019 01:58:17 +0000http://rockvillewomenscenter.com/?p=1887Monday:busy, work event Tuesday:busy, attend sports game with friend Wednesday:busy, loads of laundry and house work Thursday:busy, work/school outing Friday:busy, night out with girlfriends Saturday:plans all day, busy, dog park, meal prep, evening event Sunday:busy, scrambling to find time to prep for another busy week Does the schedule above look familiar? Like something that you experience on […]

Does the schedule above look familiar? Like something that you experience on a weekly basis?

We get it… life is so busy and there is always something going on that needs our attention. With life flying by at the speed of light, it’s so important that we take time to take care of ourselves, our bodies, and the relationships around us. Here are some tips that we routinely practice that might assist you in taking the time you need to stay refreshed and rejuvenated each and every day.

Make time for yourself each morning. You might be busy every night with your work, school, and your social schedule… but no one can take away your mornings. Set your alarm for 30 minutes earlier than you routinely get up. Take this time to reflect, drink your coffee, sit on your deck, and maybe even get lost into a book. If you’re not a reader, and exercise is more your thing, set your alarm for 45 minutes earlier and take a morning jog. We assure you, how you allow for your morning to go will set the pace for the rest of the day.

Stay on your time. Don’t be afraid to say no! If you’re already extremely overwhelmed with your personal chores and home tasks, it’s okay to pass on a girl’s night out every now and then. Don’t feel bad about saying no to take time that you need to stay on track with your goals (even if those goals mean staying on top of chores at home.)

Breathe. This might seem simple, but if you’re ever feeling extremely overwhelmed and like the world keeps spinning faster and faster, take a step back and take a deep breath. Remember what’s important to you and the relationships you value most, then step back into your day. Sometimes a deep breath and getting a hold on your current situation is all you need to relax a bit and come back down to earth.

Wind down each night. We understand it might be impossible to do every night, but during the evenings that allow it, take time to wind down from your day. A couple of our favorite things include: taking a warm bath or shower, enjoying a nice face mask treatment, winding down with hot tea, reading our favorite book with our favorite scented candle nearby, and spending calming time and reflecting on the day and the things that we’re most thankful for.

Thank someone. Relationships are so important, and we know that’s why you’re so busy all of the time… you’re surrounded by friends and family that adore you and love scheduling time with you. Make sure that you spend time nourishing the relationships you value most. Thank those that’re around you and be grateful. Expressing how thankful you are to others will in turn make them feel good. What better way to feel good about yourself than assisting someone in feeling better about themselves?

We hope we sparked some ideas or gave you some new things to try! Your happiness is important, and so is your health. Start with creating a self-care routine and make sure you make yourself a priority in your busy life!

]]>5 Ways to Be a Good Social Media Friendhttps://rockvillewomenscenter.com/2019/08/13/5-ways-to-be-a-good-social-media-friend/
Tue, 13 Aug 2019 23:54:09 +0000http://rockvillewomenscenter.com/?p=1869Social media. Real time information. Connections with friends near and far. It’s a great communication tool, until well, it isn’t… Let me explain— our friends need us to be their safe place when they’re going through some unexpected stuff. When we post bold statements about controversial issues, we may quickly build walls between us. This […]

]]>Social media. Real time information. Connections with friends near and far. It’s a great communication tool, until well, it isn’t…

Let me explain— our friends need us to be their safe place when they’re going through some unexpected stuff. When we post bold statements about controversial issues, we may quickly build walls between us.

This can happen with a variety of social issues, including conversations about the homeless, immigrants at the border and of course, abortion.

Let’s chat about that last one for a minute more. If you have a friend who is experiencing an unexpected pregnancy and is thinking about abortion, she needs to know she can trust you. After all, don’t you want her to know she can reach out to you for help?

The way you’ve engaged on social media may determine if a friend thinks she can reach out to you to talk about abortion when she’s wrestling with the decision. What can you do to make sure your friends know that you can be a place of refuge for them when they’re making big decisions?

We’ve developed a list of ways to build bridges in your social media conversations so you can be there for your friends when they want to have open dialogue about all the things weighing on their hearts.

Think before you post, and then think again— Yes, you can edit posts or delete pictures, but screenshots… yeah, you already know this, they’re forever. I usually adhere to the sticky quote of “If in doubt, just don’t.” Try to see it through someone else’s eyes, and if you don’t feel great about it, just don’t do it. Keep scrolling.

Avoid absolute statements— “I have never,” “I don’t see how anyone ever could,” and “I just don’t understand” are also ones to avoid. If you start your sentences with that, then you’ve pretty much also made the decision on how that conversation is going to end, poorly.

Find the common ground— If the subject is a controversial one, full of passionate people engaging back and forth online, find something to affirm in your friends that you’re talking to. Sometimes, it’s as simple as saying, “I really admire your passion…” or “You’ve really opened my eyes to think about that differently…” Establishing common ground with your friends says, “I value you enough to acknowledge your positive traits, even if I disagree.”

Avoid name calling— Sounds simple enough, but it still has to be said, because well… we ALL see it happen. There is absolutely no good that can come of it. Remember #1. Just don’t.

Follow positive social media— We all absorb the positive or negative energy around us differently, but it’s been proven that negativity can actually rewire the way we think. I have a sneaking suspicion that positive thinking can do the same! Choose your friends and people that you follow wisely so that you can be a light in someone else’s darkness and protect your own heart along the way.

If you have a friend who has confided in you that she is experiencing an unexpected pregnancy, you’re obviously doing something right! The next thing you can do is get her to a place that can help her understand her options, as she puts a plan together for her next steps. Rockville Women’s Center can help with that! We specialize in helping women considering abortion as their next step. We’re a non-profit women’s health center in Rockville, Maryland that believes in empowering women to make the best decision for their life and their situation. Encourage your friend to schedule a FREE appointment with us today!

]]>Sleep… and Why It’s So Importanthttps://rockvillewomenscenter.com/2019/07/30/sleep-and-why-its-so-important/
Tue, 30 Jul 2019 00:30:33 +0000http://rockvillewomenscenter.com/?p=1862What’s the one thing that no one ever gets enough of, but it’s something we all need a solid amount of? You guessed it… it’s sleep! There are so many reasons we don’t get enough sleep, but the #1 reason we all fail at this tall task is because life is just busy! We get it, […]

]]>What’s the one thing that no one ever gets enough of, but it’s something we all need a solid amount of? You guessed it… it’s sleep! There are so many reasons we don’t get enough sleep, but the #1 reason we all fail at this tall task is because life is just busy!

We get it, we know there is always so much going on at once, all requiring us to stay up longer and wake up earlier… after all, the early bird gets the worm, right? Well, actually, not always. Not if your body isn’t rested enough to function properly!

Here are four reasons why getting enough quality sleep is extremely important for you, and your health!

Poor sleep quality is actually connected to weight gain. There are many studies that show a correlation between poor sleeping habits and increased obesity. Doesn’t make sense? Just think about it… if you don’t get enough sleep, your brain can’t function properly the next day. The same goes for your body! If you don’t give it the rest that it needs, your body isn’t going to be top notch and assist you in any way either. Additionally, with low sleep quality, you won’t have any energy, and your body needs energy to fight off fat.

Good sleep can maximize concentration and productivity. We really think this one is pretty self-explanatory. Sleeping more gives you more energy, which in turn allows you to be more productive and concentrate throughout the day.

Lack of sleep is linked to depression. Being tired all the time puts your mind in a state of sadness. If you’re in a dark place and sad nonstop because you just can’t get enough energy to crawl out of your mood, after a while, you will become depressed. Get some rest and be sure to talk to someone if you’re feeling down. Remember, we’re always here to listen!

Getting a sufficient amount of sleep has been proven to boost your immune system. We know, you’ve heard it before… when you’re not feeling well, you’re told to go home and get some rest. That’s because it works! Getting enough sleep does wonders for your body and repairs your immune system. Afterall, when you’re sick, it’s because your body got worn down and an infection was able to penetrate your system. So, battle back and don’t let sickness get you down by getting more sleep at night!

It really seems so simple… just sleep more! However, we all know it’s not that easy. We just recommend being more conscious of your sleep habits and trying to make small choices here and there to allow yourself to get more rest. Happy sleeping!

]]>Will Abortion Ruin My Future Relationship with Him?https://rockvillewomenscenter.com/2019/07/13/will-abortion-ruin-my-future-relationship-with-him/
Sat, 13 Jul 2019 01:05:07 +0000http://rockvillewomenscenter.com/?p=1818Will Abortion Ruin My Future Relationship with Him? — Let’s unpack this—emotions, questions, confusion and all. This specific question seems to be the one that lingers in the minds of so many women in the Rockville area that come to see us. Relationships are already tough, right? You have two individuals who each bring their […]

]]>Will Abortion Ruin My Future Relationship with Him? — Let’s unpack this—emotions, questions, confusion and all. This specific question seems to be the one that lingers in the minds of so many women in the Rockville area that come to see us.

Relationships are already tough, right?

You have two individuals who each bring their own opinions, needs and dreams to a relationship, hoping they can blend those together to make a good future that is enjoyable for the both of them. Throw an unexpected pregnancy in there and suddenly everything seemingly changes for the both of you.

Discovering that you are pregnant, when you have absolutely no desire to be, may be simply overwhelming. Being overwhelmed may cause you to be filled with fear and anxiety that in turn spins up your emotions. That can have you searching to regain your identity that you feel like is slipping away. You may feel yourself turning against your significant other and find yourself asking questions like:

“What if he wants this, but I don’t?”

“What if I want this, but he doesn’t?”

Perhaps the hardest one to respond to is if he says, “I’ll support whatever you decide.”

While this one probably seems like the best response to him, doesn’t he understand that if you opened up about this pregnancy information with him, that you’d like him to give you more reassurance than just that? This well-meaning and neutral response from him can naturally have you second guessing yourself even more now.

It’s normal that your mind may be racing because you don’t want to make the wrong decision, rightfully knowing that this could possibly impact your future together. I mean, isn’t that exactly what you’re trying to protect right now as you think about having an abortion—your own future and maybe even your future with him?

While we’d love for the internet to magically help us with a simple yes or no answer by typing in “will abortion ruin my future relationship with him,” that’s just not how it works. There are answers out there, but they can only be properly explored when you can connect with unbiased individuals who specialize in helping women in unplanned pregnancies who are considering abortion.

Why is it important to go to a specialist who is trained to work with women experiencing unexpected pregnancies you might ask?

Well, you need a safe place to gather your thoughts, give you factual answers to your questions, and help you put a plan together for your next steps that fits exactly what you need. And well, sometimes that’s just hard for people close to you to do when they are directly involved in the situation. It’s hard to give unbiased advice when the situation impacts their life as well.

Also, someone who has vast experience working with women who have been in similar situations as yours has a lot of valuable information to offer you. That’s something most well-meaning friends can’t do for you.

Where do you find experienced professionals who can help you when you’re trying to make decisions about abortion and how it could affect your future? Rockville Women’s Center offers free pre-abortion screenings that include a nurse consult, viability testing to evaluate if it looks like your pregnancy is progressing or miscarrying, STI testing, and options counseling.

Our licensed, medical professionals have a way of putting you at ease. They’ll help you understand all your results and answer questions you may have. Because we don’t profit from any option you choose, you don’t have to worry about any pressure coming your way from us. We’re able to provide you with a discrete place to discuss all your options without fear of judgement or a sales pitch.

In fact, all of our services are offered FREE of charge, because we’re a non-profit women’s health center in Rockville, Maryland that believes in empowering women to make the best decision for their life and their situation. Schedule your appointment with us today!

]]>Knowledge is Power … But Why?https://rockvillewomenscenter.com/2019/07/13/knowledge-is-power-but-why/
Sat, 13 Jul 2019 00:55:17 +0000http://rockvillewomenscenter.com/?p=1814One of the things that we always talk about, and strongly believe is that knowledge is in fact power. However, this time, we aren’t just going to ask you to believe us… we are going to tell you why knowledge and being educated makes you powerful and allows you to take control of any situation you might be in. 1. […]

]]>One of the things that we always talk about, and strongly believe is that knowledge is in fact power. However, this time, we aren’t just going to ask you to believe us… we are going to tell you why knowledge and being educated makes you powerful and allows you to take control of any situation you might be in.

1. Having knowledge, about whatever it may be, allows you to be confident and independent. Not only does the information you know give you ground to stand on and back up any claim with confidence, but it allows you to feel good in knowing that you can make sound decisions because you’re educated and informed.

a. Think about it the other way around, if you have a problem, or a question you don’t know the answer to, don’t you feel weak? Out of sorts? Insecure not knowing the answers? Dependent on others to help you find the answer? It’s perfectly fine to ask for help in these instances and understand the truth and facts behind whatever your problem may be. You’ll be better equipped the next time something similar arises, or even better, you might be able to help someone else with the same problem.

2. You’ll gain respect! When you have the facts, and you’re in a conversation with someone, they are going to be impressed with you for not only having knowledge, but having facts to support the information you’re sharing with them.

a. You don’t ever want to be that person that “always has to have an answer”. Be the person who may not always have the answer, but when you do, it’s true and backed with confidence and facts!

3. In this fast-paced, always-changing world we live in, there is so much going on around us, we don’t always have time to stop and think. Because of this, we are more prone to stress, fear, and the anxieties of nonstop worry. What better way to stop worrying than to have the facts to set your mind at ease, and even boost your mindset to be a more positive one.

a. Not sure what we’re talking about here? Well, think about what makes you worry the most. Is it paying all of the bills? Is it finding affordable options near you for food or even living? Think about what you might be able to educate yourself about in order to put those fears aside. Maybe you focus on saving money, decreasing your electric bill, etc. What better way to figure out how to do those things than a little research and gaining an understanding of tips and ways that can help you accomplish those goals.

b. As any millineal knows, it’s pretty easy to grab your phone and find the closest food near you. However, maybe the closest isn’t the most practical or affordable. Do some research, understand what you’re up against, and stick to your plan.

Knowledge is power. Start small, find things that you can dive into and educate yourself with. You won’t regret the feeling of empowerment!

]]>Tips to Welcome Spring into Your Home This Seasonhttps://rockvillewomenscenter.com/2019/06/05/tips-to-welcome-spring-into-your-home-this-season/
Wed, 05 Jun 2019 03:23:21 +0000http://rockvillewomenscenter.com/?p=1768Spring is here and it’s time to take in the sunshine! It’s not only a great time to enjoy the beautiful scenery outside your home, but it’s also the perfect time to make the insideof your home feel warm and inviting as well! Here are 5 easy tips to welcome this wonderful season into your life […]

]]>Spring is here and it’s time to take in the sunshine! It’s not only a great time to enjoy the beautiful scenery outside your home, but it’s also the perfect time to make the insideof your home feel warm and inviting as well! Here are 5 easy tips to welcome this wonderful season into your life this year:

Throw pillows. Not only are throw pillows cute, but they also can add a nice accent to any room. So, go ahead and get your favorite spring pattern for your living room couch and add the perfect touch to your living room. If your bedroom still feels a little wintry, go ahead and get a couple cute pillows to change the vibe of that room as well.

Freshen it up. Spend some time in your favorite store, smelling the candles and soaps and decide what you want your home to smell like this season. What reminds you of spring? What scent gives you good vibes and makes you feel happy? Be sure to get a couple of candles and plenty of soaps to get you through the next couple months!

Let the sunshine in. When the weather is just right, not too hot and not to cold, open up your windows and let the fresh air come in. Welcome the spring sunshine with open arms, girl! Vitamin D is your friend!

Florals are in. Not only are floral patterns super appropriate for this time of year, but so is the real deal. If you don’t have a green thumb and aren’t so sure about planting beautiful flowers around your house or apartment, buy some inside succulents that can brighten up your home just the same!

Tidy up. Take a little extra time for some spring cleaning and you won’t regret it. Nothing says spring like the feeling of a clean home, and a freshly organized closet with all of your spring and summer apparel, ready to be worn.

There ya have it! In just 5 simple (and cheap) ways, you can easily welcome spring into your home!

]]>5 Ways to Turn Your Bad Day Aroundhttps://rockvillewomenscenter.com/2019/05/05/5-ways-to-turn-your-bad-day-around/
Sun, 05 May 2019 17:21:13 +0000http://rockvillewomenscenter.com/?p=1452Unfortunately, we have those days— the days that seem to last forever, the days that nothing goes in our favor, and the days that you just want to throw your hands up and give up. But don’t… don’t ever give up! We get how easy it is to only see the bad things that are […]

]]>Unfortunately, we have those days— the days that seem to last forever, the days that nothing goes in our favor, and the days that you just want to throw your hands up and give up. But don’t… don’t ever give up! We get how easy it is to only see the bad things that are going on around us, but sometimes you just have to look up. Look up and see the sun, the fact that it’s shining… that’s one thing that’s going your way. Or the little lady that flashes a smile at you at the grocery store, that’s a positive. Shoot her a smile back; who knows what she’s going through!

We could go on and on about the things that do go our way each day… even when we don’t see them. However, today we want to leave you with 5 life hacks that will help you turn your bad day(s) around:

Accept it. Accept that you aren’t having a stellar day but choose to make the best out of it. Decide that life is hard sometimes and bad things do happen, but that you’re going to give the day your best shot any way. Mentality is everything.

Put your mind on one task and make it your daily mission to conquer it. Completing tasks and marking items off a list make everyone feel good and accomplished. So why not focus on one thing and just get it done? You’ll feel better about one thing at least for the day.

Get outside. Ask a friend to go for a walk or take a stroll outside. Nothing makes your mind and body feel better than simply spending time outdoors and soaking up all that nature has to offer. Even if it’s for a bit, just go outside and breathe. Take several deep breaths and know that tomorrow truly is another day.

Visit the dog park or your local shelter. Nothing says “stress relief” like being surrounded by furry friends. Those furry friends that love you no matter what… that’s the kind of love you need to be surrounded by, especially on your bad days.

Find a glimmer of hope. Go back to the beginning of this post… the sun may be shining, someone at the store might have flashed you a smile… take what’s given to you and try to find the best in everything!

Bad days will happen, but the next day is bound to be better! Chin up and remember how awesome youare and all of the little things in life that are going your way!

]]>Be That Girlhttps://rockvillewomenscenter.com/2019/04/18/be-that-girl/
Thu, 18 Apr 2019 01:47:59 +0000http://rockvillewomenscenter.com/?p=1413Everyone always tells you to “be yourself” and “do you”. But what does that even mean? In a world full of nonstop media, a digital world that changes faster than we can blink, social media heroes, and idols coming at us from all directions… it’s hard to know who “yourself” even is. No matter what […]

]]>Everyone always tells you to “be yourself” and “do you”. But what does that even mean? In a world full of nonstop media, a digital world that changes faster than we can blink, social media heroes, and idols coming at us from all directions… it’s hard to know who “yourself” even is.

No matter what you aspire to be, who you look up to, and what you want to become… doing a few things routinely might just help you find yourself a bit sooner than you would otherwise. So be that girl and…

Smile at everyone. Yes, we said it… and more importantly we mean it. Smiling at everyone, no matter how happy you are or how your day is going, will make those around you feel happy and even better yet, it’ll make you more approachable. It’s hard to find who you are, if you just focus on yourself. Look around and try to make someone else’s day.

Remain open to new ideas and adventures. Just because you’ve never done something before… doesn’t mean you won’t like it. Give it a try! If new ideas scare you, try to move a little more out of your comfort zone a little each time a friend asks you to… and before no time, you might just have a new hobby! You might just find that “being yourself” is defined by something you haven’t even experienced yet.

Be kind. This ties nicely into #1, but seriously just be kind to everyone. It costs you nothing, and others will appreciate it. If you’re constantly negative and grouchy towards others, you might miss out on newfound opportunities and friendships.

Put the devices down. Yep… phones, laptops, tablets. Anything that streams outside media into your life, put it away. Depending on your lifestyle, maybe you have to use electronics for your job, but there are other ways to follow through with this tip. Maybe you make your bedroom a no phone zone or start spending time outside instead of watching TV in the evenings when the weather is beautiful outside. We’re not saying it’s all bad… but how’re you supposed to figure out who you are with social media, newscasts, and TV shows all advertising their best lives.

You’ve got this girl! You might not know who “you” are just yet… but be open to new ideas, be adventurous, and simply be kind… and you’ll be able to know just who you are in no time. Sometimes finding what makes you happy, and surrounding yourself with the things you love, is the secret sauce to success.

]]>Are you Undecided About Having an Abortion?https://rockvillewomenscenter.com/2019/03/13/are-you-undecided-about-having-an-abortion/
Wed, 13 Mar 2019 00:11:19 +0000http://rockvillewomenscenter.com/?p=1386Sometimes we think that we would absolutely never do something… until we’re smack dab in the middle of that situation. Many women experience this when finding themselves with an unplanned pregnancy and considering abortion as an option. This can cause you to keep all of your emotions to yourself, because you may not want anyone […]

]]>Sometimes we think that we would absolutely never do something… until we’re smack dab in the middle of that situation. Many women experience this when finding themselves with an unplanned pregnancy and considering abortion as an option.

This can cause you to keep all of your emotions to yourself, because you may not want anyone else to know that you’re pregnant and thinking about abortion. It’s a secret you might really want to keep to yourself. You may start to withdraw from your friends and family in fear of judgment. You might think that you’re all alone on this journey, and that can be a pretty dark place for anyone.

“Women who are facing an accidental pregnancy and trying to decide if abortion is their best option, do NOT have to walk this path alone.”

Let this be an encouragement to you— Women who are facing an accidental pregnancy and trying to decide if abortion is their best option, do NOT have to walk this path alone.

Isolation is a place where fear increases, and hope is diminished. When you’re making a decision about abortion, you need to remember a few simple things:

Give yourself the gift of time. You might feel like you just need to get this taken care of and quickly— understandably so. However, it’s best to allow yourself the time to make the best decision for you and your situation. Don’t settle for low quality care by going to a clinic that views you as a number and pressures you into a decision so they can hurry to the next patient. You deserve better than that, no matter your sense of desperation.

Recognize that you need a no-pressure environment. You need a place where you can discretely discuss your options for your unplanned pregnancy with people you can trust, who will not try to make a decision for you. Sometimes, well-meaning friends and family can make you feel uncomfortable when they have a strong opinion on the matter. This might even make you feel like keeping your pregnancy a secret from your loved ones is a good idea. If this is your situation, it’s vital that you find a place where you can ask questions of experienced professionals without judgment and know that your private information is just that—private.

Don’t pay for anything you don’t need to. This may seem intriguing, and it actually has a couple meanings. First, did you know that up to half of all pregnancies end in a natural miscarriage, and did you know that there are exams that can evaluate if you are at-risk for a possible miscarriage? There’s no need to pay for a procedure that you may not even need if your body is preparing for a miscarriage. Additionally, there are women’s health centers you can go to that will check on this for you without charging you a dime. When these women’s centers don’t profit off any services, you can be confident that you’re not just another number to them.